A new solar heating system has been installed at the Alice Solar City Sustainable Living House to take the edge off winter temperatures for its occupant.
One of the first of its kind in Alice Springs, residents can see the heating system in action and find out more when the house opens to the public this Saturday.
The system uses a roof mounted solar panel to heat fresh air, and then pumps that heated air into the house.
“The technology works best on sunny days, and as the typical winter’s day in Alice is cool but sunny, this type of technology should suit Alice Springs well. It also works in reverse in summer by bringing in cool, fresh air.”, says Brian Elmer, General Manager of Alice Solar City.
“Solar air heating is not common, but we wanted to trial it at the Sustainable Living House to ascertain the environmental and economic benefits to typical Alice Springs dwellings.”
“We are monitoring the before and after temperatures at the house to assess how effective it is.”
Kristelle Sherwood, owner of the Sustainable Living House says that her house has been noticeably cooler since having several energy efficient measures installed at the house.
“Having my roof painted white was really effective in summer to reduce the internal temperature, but during this years winter, which has been colder than normal, the house is feeling noticeably cooler.”
“I am looking forward to seeing how the solar air heating complements and reduces the use of my wood fired heater during the last few weeks of winter.”
This Saturday will see the Sustainable Living House open to the public for the fifth time, and visitors are welcome to view the dozens of energy and water efficiency measures that have been installed.
The team from DesertSmart CoolMob will be on hand with their brand new ‘Water Wise’ booklet which shows simple and effective ways to lower your water use including information on greywater systems and native gardens.
The Sustainable Living House is open from 12 noon to 3pm this Saturday at 68 Kurrajong Drive.
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